Signs of Compulsive Lying

Everybody has lied on some occasion in life. However compulsive lying is different, a compulsive liar has no control over his lying habit. It is very uncomfortable for him to speak the truth. He lies on both major and minor issues.

There is a difference between pathological liars and compulsive liars. Pathological liars lie for some advantage and are calculative. They have less respect for the feelings and rights of others. Compulsive liars lie out of habit universally and even on issues where lying does not benefit them. A compulsive liar is also called a habitual liar or chronic liar.

Signs of Compulsive Liars

There are tell tale signs of compulsive liars. Often the compulsive liar suffers from low self-esteem. He may not possess attributes or accomplishments to boast of. He may have come from a disturbed or broken family. He would lie to portray an impressive image of himself. He is afraid to face the truth.

The compulsive liar is never nervous. He lies with immense poise and self-confidence. His stories are inconsistent because he does not remember which story they told which person. He will make up stories to cover his lies. He likes to be the center of attention. He will lie in order that people notice him.

A compulsive liar may not even be aware that he is lying or will deny that he is lying. If he is lying to manipulate people he is probably not a compulsive liar. Compulsive liars cannot selectively lie. He has to keep on lying to protect the last lie. He has no remorse over his past lies. It is very easy for him to lie unlike normal people who find it difficult. He will even lie when the truth could benefit him more.

In case of a compulsive liar you could find evidence that he is lying which is easy because he always lies. If you know someone who tells you that he is a perpetual liar then the chances are high that he is a compulsive liar. A compulsive liar can lie smoothly looking at you straight in the eye. You can look at his body language for signs of lying. If he has crossed his arms he might be hiding certain facts from you. If he is blinking frequently then chances are high he is lying. Another sign is he will never admit the truth even when faced with concrete evidence.

The consequence of compulsive lying is that no one trusts him anymore. It could have far reaching consequences on his job, relationships and friends. It is a vicious cycle, which can alienate the very people who are dear to him.

The cure for this condition is that the person affected should take the initiative. He has to meet a psychologist and/or a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist will prescribe the needed medication. The psychologist will analyze why this behavior is happening. Hypnosis is a possible solution to this problem. Fortunately this is a treatable condition.